courteous

UK: ˈkɜː.ti.əs | US: ˈkɜːr.ti.əs

Definition

  1. adj. polite, respectful, or considerate in manner

  2. adj. marked by gracious courtesy

Structure
court <royal court>eous <adjective suffix>court <royal court>eous <adjective suffix>
Etymology

The word courteous originated in the Middle Ages, when behavior associated with royal courts (court) was idealized as refined and respectful. The suffix -eous (from Latin -osus) was added to form an adjective meaning "full of courtly manners." Over time, it generalized to describe polite behavior in everyday contexts.

Examples

  1. The waiter was courteous and attentive throughout the meal.

  2. She gave a courteous reply to the interviewer's difficult question.

  3. Despite the disagreement, he remained courteous to his opponent.

  4. A courteous driver waved to let us merge into traffic.

  5. The hotel staff were consistently courteous to all guests.